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Things Every Rhode Islander Should Eat, See and Do!
By Amy Derjue
Illustration by Gilbert Ford
Rhode Island is the smallest state in America, but it has so much to offer that many natives live their entire lives without taking advantage of all the activities, meals, sights and sounds that make the Ocean State unique. Here is the definitive list of things that make up the quintessential Rhode Island experience — from beaches to orchards, music to reality television, and hot wieners to apple pie.
Rent a beach house in South County
Who has the time to maintain a beach home? Instead, rent one. The first week of August is the busiest (and most expensive) time, while June and September rentals are more affordable and easier to find. Units directly on the beach aren’t leased to University of Rhode Island students, so holiday rentals are great for those who can’t take the heat.
For more: durkincottages.com
For more: durkincottages.com
Snow-tube at Yawgoo Valley
Why: Speeding down a hill makes everyone feel like a kid. And the conveyor belt ferrying sledders back up the slopes prevents aches and pains.
Your gear: The tube you rent there; money for an apres-ski drink.
For more: yawgoo.com
Your gear: The tube you rent there; money for an apres-ski drink.
For more: yawgoo.com
Kayak the Great Salt Pond
Why: This calm, 800-acre body of water on Block Island is one of the most scenic in the state. In its natural habitat you get a close-up view of the island’s wildlife which includes migratory birds.
Your gear: You can bring your own vessel to the public launch site at the corner of Ocean Avenue and West Side Road, or rent from one of the two kayak rental companies on the island. Don’t forget your life vest and a waterproof camera!
For more: Pond and Beyond, 466-5105; Aldo’s Boat Rentals, 466-5811
Your gear: You can bring your own vessel to the public launch site at the corner of Ocean Avenue and West Side Road, or rent from one of the two kayak rental companies on the island. Don’t forget your life vest and a waterproof camera!
For more: Pond and Beyond, 466-5105; Aldo’s Boat Rentals, 466-5811
Harvest your own quahogs
Why: Rhode Islanders have the right to shellfish recreationally without a license. Out-of-staters must — pardon the pun — shell out $11 for a permit. Bluff Hill Cove in Galilee at low tide is a prime quahogging spot. (Just be sure to check for shellfish bed closings, especially after heavy rainfall.)
Your gear: A hand rake, an old pair of sneakers, or possibly gloves, though they might hinder your digging. Drag your toe along the sand. When you feel a quahog, reach down and pull up your prize. Worry about your muddy paws later.
For more: dem.ri.gov
Your gear: A hand rake, an old pair of sneakers, or possibly gloves, though they might hinder your digging. Drag your toe along the sand. When you feel a quahog, reach down and pull up your prize. Worry about your muddy paws later.
For more: dem.ri.gov
Run over the Newport Bridge
Why: For the first time in the forty-two-year history of the bridge, pedestrians were allowed on the bridge for a 4.2-mile race between Jamestown and Newport last November.
Your gear: Sneakers. Organizers hope this will become an annual tradition, so start training now.
For more: citzensbridgerun.com
Your gear: Sneakers. Organizers hope this will become an annual tradition, so start training now.
For more: citzensbridgerun.com
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Reader Comments:
Nothing better than bringing home and enjoying your own fresh caught Quahogs!